Italy thrashes Estonia 5–0 in World Cup qualifiers. Kean, Retegui, and Raspadori shine
A Fresh Start for Italy Under Gattuso
2026 FIFA World Cup-Italy Roars Back: Gattuso’s Squad Crushes Estonia – Italy made a powerful statement in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier by defeating Estonia 5-0 on September 5, 2025, at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo. This was the first match under new head coach Gennaro Gattuso, and it marked a fresh beginning for the Azzurri after missing the last two World Cups.
Gattuso, known for his fiery passion and tactical discipline, promised to “give enthusiasm back” to Italian fans—and his team delivered. Italy dominated the match from start to finish, showing hunger, unity, and attacking flair. The win puts Italy in a strong position in Group I, just behind leaders Norway, with a game in hand.
The crowd of over 22,000 fans at Gewiss Stadium witnessed a thrilling second-half performance, where all five goals were scored. Italy’s players looked confident, sharp, and determined to reclaim their place among football’s elite.
Match Highlights: Goals Galore in Bergamo
The first half saw Italy controlling possession and creating chances, but Estonia’s goalkeeper Karl Hein kept the scoreline level. That changed in the 58th minute, when Moise Kean rose high to head in the opening goal, breaking the deadlock and igniting Italy’s attack.
Just 11 minutes later, Mateo Retegui scored his first of two goals, followed by a quick strike from Giacomo Raspadori in the 71st minute. Retegui added another in the 89th minute, and Alessandro Bastoni capped off the night with a header in stoppage time.
Italy had 40 shot attempts, 13 on target, and 69.9% possession, while Estonia managed only 4 shots and none on goal. It was a complete performance, with Italy’s midfield and defense working in perfect harmony.
Gattuso’s decision to play with two strikers paid off, as Kean and Retegui caused constant problems for Estonia’s backline. The team’s pressing and passing were sharp, and their finishing was clinical.
Key Players: Retegui, Kean, and Raspadori Shine
Mateo Retegui, the Argentina-born forward, was the star of the night. Returning to Bergamo, where he once played for Atalanta, Retegui scored twice and showed great movement and composure. He said, “We showed great hunger, hard work and humility all week. We proved we’re still standing and want to fight for qualification.”
Moise Kean opened the scoring and looked dangerous throughout the match. His physical presence and aerial ability gave Italy an edge in attack. Giacomo Raspadori, who scored the third goal and assisted Bastoni’s header, was another standout performer.
In midfield, Manuel Locatelli and Nicolò Barella controlled the tempo, while defenders like Bastoni, Di Lorenzo, and Dimarco kept Estonia quiet. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had a calm night, thanks to Italy’s dominance.
Gattuso praised the team’s attitude, saying, “You can make mistakes, but you need the right attitude. The lads deserve all the credit.”
What’s Next: Italy Eyes Israel and Norway
Italy’s next match is against Israel on Monday, September 8, played on neutral ground in Hungary. A win would move Italy into second place in Group I, ahead of Israel and just behind Norway.
The final group game against Norway on November 16 in Milan could decide who qualifies directly for the World Cup. Italy must stay consistent and focused, as only the group winner earns automatic qualification.
This 5-0 win over Estonia was more than just three points, it was a message. Italy is back, and under Gattuso, they’re playing with fire, pride, and purpose. After years of disappointment, the Azzurri are ready to fight their way back to the world stage.
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